The "Handbook of Pediatric Medical Emergencies" attempts to supply in brief outline form essential information for the recognition and management of urgent clinical problems in pediatrics. The range of subjects covered is broad, and specific details, such as drug dosage and precautionary measures, are given in most instances. A particularly useful and usable section is that on poisonings, which lists trade names of noxious substances, their constituents, and antidotal therapy. Other divisions of subject matter are cardiovascular, gastrointestinal, genitourinary, neurologic, respiratory, and miscellaneous emergencies. An additional section on pediatric procedures contains much practical information. On the whole, the illustrations are appropriately selected and informative.
Several criticisms are pertinent. As evidenced by two addenda, almost constant revisions will be required if this book is to remain current. Brevity precludes the possibility of discussing alternative approaches, as in the management of infantile diarrhea. The critical reader will be disappointed that more basic